Hillary Clinton’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for Secretary of State opened Tuesday with a warm reception from her former colleagues. Admiration and congratulations were showered on her from both sides of the aisle. While laying out the incoming Obama Administration’s foreign policy plans, Clinton called for “a new approach with a heavier focus on diplomacy.” Clinton coined a new phrase, “smart power” to describe the Obama Administration’s approach which she relayed as blending ideology and realpolitik in equal measure.

Questions were raised as to whether the activities of her husband’s charitable foundation might present a conflict of interest.  Despite these questions it appears and if Clinton is headed for easy confirmation.

Highlights from the Hearing: